Proudly serving:
Belmont
Dover
Framingham
Natick
Needham
Newton
Sherborne
Sudbury
Wayland
Wellesley
Weston
Trees and shrubs are the foundation of any great greenspace. They add height, dimension, and contrast to your landscaping design. They can also represent one of the largest financial investments in your yard. But a little TLC can go a long way to protecting that investment and Greenleaf has over 30 years’ experience working with clients to bring the very best out of their trees and shrubs.
Tree & Shrub Care
Pruning
We’ve mastered the art of shaping trees and shrubs for best esthetics and health. Broken or damaged branches are an obvious place to start, but remember plants need pruning to correct potentially damaging growth and to improve overall structure. A tree will likely require pruning every 1-2 years to establish and maintain proper structure. It’s important to leave as much foliage on trees and shrubs for photosynthesis and regeneration. Remember, extensive pruning can affect the roots, especially if your tree is within 10 feet of utility lines or your home.
Planting
Before choosing and planting trees and shrubs, consideration and careful attention should be given to the site itself. Trying to decide between "native" v.s. "introduced" or "exotic" species? Talk to Greenleaf. We'll help you evaluate what's the best tree or shrub for your space using the following criteria:
Ground Slope
Hardiness Zone
Soil Type
Exposure
Soil Compaction
Amount of Light
Drainage
Soil pH/Nutrient Availability
Feeding
When we plan new trees and shrubs in your outdoor space we make sure they have everything they need to thrive. However, trees and shrubs that have been in place longer need expert care. Limestone should be added based on a soil test and water-soluble (quick-release) nitrogen fertilizer can cause root injury if not applied correctly. We like slow-release or organic form of nitrogen mixed applied on the soil surface around the tree basin. But we have a whole host of options to choose from. Just call us.
Mulch
Mulching is a huge benefit to trees and shrubs — but only when done correctly. Mulch reduces weeds, maintains moderate soil temperatures, and conserves soil moisture. Mulch also reduces root-zone erosion, soil compaction, and prevents lawnmower, string trimmer, and other machinery damage. Plus, let's face it, we all love how it looks. However, improper mulching impairs plant health and can lead to the decline of the plant material. It’s important to keep mulched beds flat. Piled up against the trunk can cause bark decay or encourage insects, disease, and rodents. That’s why Greenleaf’s years of experience are so critical.
Irrigation
Trees and shrubs drink a lot! Rainfall alone may not provide the adequate, consistent moisture necessary for great growth and the formation and/or elongation of new roots. Newly planted trees need water every day, 2-3 times per week — it’s essential they get adequate water during the entire first growing season, right up until dormancy in the late fall, to become established. Greenleaf offers full-service irrigation. Take a look at everything we have to offer, today.
Protection
Bark acts just like our skin. It’s a barrier to insects and disease. And bark injuries aren’t just caused by cuts — there’s sun damage or temperature extremes (frost cracks). Trees and shrubs should be checked regularly for bark damage. Rodent trunk damage is a concern. A plastic trunk guard, hardware cloth, or wire fencing with 1- 4 inches of space around the trunk ensures protection in snow, but should be removed in the spring.
Tree Staking & Stabilization
Young trees often need support and structure as they grow. Trunk strength, size of the canopy, wind direction, and yard traffic all need to be considered. The rootball also needs to be stable in the soil, then stakes can be attached low on the trunk to allow some sway. In most cases stakes should be removed after one growing season. Not if staking isn’t done correctly, you run the risk of smaller root system and poor trunk taper. Talk to Greenleaf and we’ll make sure your investment is protected.